Indigenous Guardians serve as the “eyes and ears on the ground,” protecting traditional territories while offering a powerful example of reconciliation in action. They monitor ecological health to safeguard ecosystems, species, and cultural heritage, while also reinforcing the social and cultural bonds within their communities.In a significant development today, the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Culture and Identity, Parks Canada, announced $1 million in funding over two years to help the Confederacy of Mainland Mi’kmaq expand its successful Nuji Kelo’toqatijik Earth Keeper Network Guardians program by introducing an aquatics division.
The Nuji Kelo’toqatijik Earth Keeper Network is a Mi’kmaq-led initiative based in Nova Scotia, supported by various partners, including Parks Canada and Environment and Climate Change Canada.The name “Nuji Kelo’toqatijik” translates to “the ones who watch over something.” The network’s objectives include building Mi’kmaw land-based skills, practicing Netukulimk (which emphasizes environmental and social sustainability), expanding community engagement, and facilitating the transfer of Indigenous knowledge between Mi’kmaw Elders and youth.
The Earth Keeper Network adopts an Etuaptmumk or “Two-eyed seeing” approach, merging Indigenous and Western knowledge.The newly added Aquatics Division will focus on connecting youth with water through Mi’kmaw cultural practices and teachings. The division w.
